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She was looking for a woman. No, not just any woman—her daughter. Morticia's verdant gaze widened in concern, her lips pulling into a frown.

I'm so sorry she is lost, the matriarch replied, shaking her head ruefully. Of course I will look out for her. Do you know of any reason why she would have gone?

Morticia might be cruel, vindictive, sullen. . .but she was a mother, too, and thus the worry wasn't entirely feigned on her behalf.

She turned and pointed with her nose in the direction she'd came. My husband and I have set up camp on the edge of the great forest, she replied, looking back toward the woman. If you need a place to rest during your search, you are welcome to our hearth.

Atlas might not be pleased with the proffered invitation, but, whatever. She'd long taken the approach of asking for forgiveness rather than permission with her dear divine mate.